COPPERAS COVE — The area’s below-freezing temperatures could not keep some visitors away from the Krist Kindl Markt on Saturday.

Wanda Robinson, of Copperas Cove, said she could not remember how long she’s been coming to the three-day festival, but she comes every year.

“I always know exactly what I am coming for and always buy the same stuff. I bought some jerky and a gordita for my husband and will buy a turkey leg for my father,” Robinson said. “I also bought some cupcakes from one of the new vendors that is here this year.”

The colder temperatures likely will reduce the event’s normal attendance of about 8,000 in half, said event organizer Liz Sherman of the Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce.

About 80 vendors filled 100 spaces in the Avenue E area of downtown. Debbie Crummie of Copperas Cove said she was looking for food, sweets and a special sign for her house as she looked through the inventory at the Stidham’s Vinyl Signs booth.

“I want a sign that has a message that is funny but still serious that others can pick up on.”

The cold spell forced organizers to cancel the carnival games and rides and the entertainment for the event. That didn’t matter to Debbie Williams of Copperas Cove, who was doing some serious shopping.

“I bought some books, cosmetics, cupcakes and of course, some jerky,” Williams said. “I have been coming (to this event) forever. It’s a Christmas tradition.”

Betty Price, president of the Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce, embraced the 20-degree temperatures.

“This is perfect weather for an outdoor Christmas market for folks to stroll around from booth to booth getting their special and unique gifts,” Price said. “Just perfect weather.”

The 19th annual Krist Kindl Markt and Downtown Bazaar is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. today.